Desirable Competencies of Emergency Medical Personnel According to The Opinions of Stakeholders in the Primary Health Care System

Abstract

This qualitative study aimed to explore the desired competencies of emergency medical personnel based on the opinions of stakeholders in the primary healthcare system. A total of 53 people from five groups related to medical emergency, specifically administrators, educational institutions, health service agencies, graduates, and students, were purposefully selected for in-depth interviews and focus groups as key informants Recruitment continued until data saturation was achieved, which was at 53 participants Both interviews and focus group discussions were checked for content validity, rendering a consistency index between 0.67-1.00.  Data were analyzed by thematic analysis and trustworthiness was assessed according to the COREQ (Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research) guidelines.  The findings revealed that the desirable work characteristics of emergency medical personnel involved being able to operate in the roles, and assume the responsibilities required for integrated operations. 2) The desired competencies of emergency medical personnel consisted of (1) professional competency and expertise in life-saving, and critical patient management, (2) systemic competency in proactive community management and network integration, and (3) soft and leadership skills. Therefore, educational institutions, in addition to developing professional competencies, should also develop soft skills, emphasizing the application of leadership skills, emotional control, and interpersonal relationships in communication with patients' relatives and team members under pressure. Service agencies, in terms of policy, should implement a rotational work model to allow personnel the opportunity to work both in dispatch centers and on advanced life support (ALS) ambulances in network units, in order to maintain professional competencies according to international standards.